Microsoft officially launched its latest and much awaited operating system Windows 8 in Malaysia at Lowyat Plaza last Monday. Windows 8 introduces a beautiful new user interface designed specifically for touch and is designed for a no-compromise experience for work and play across various device form-factors.

The new Metro-style Start screen in Windows 8 is customized with live tiles and provides a fast, easy way to view and interact with all your favorite apps, people and content. Live tiles provide a glimpse into the information you care about most, all at a glance.

Thousands of apps are already available from the new Windows Store as well as many local apps such as The Star Online, AirAsia, Genting Resort World, iProperty and DiGi. The new Windows Store is cloud connected, which means that your settings automatically follow across your Windows 8 devices and the purchased apps can be downloaded on any Windows 8 device.

Windows 8 comes in 4 editions which are :-

• Windows 8 is the basic edition for home users. It includes the core
  feature set that home users require but does not include key business features, such as support for
  the ability to join domains, process Group Policy, and so on.
• Windows 8 Pro is for small- and medium-sized businesses. It provides
  enhanced features that help to easily connect to company networks, access files on the go, encrypt
  data, and more.
• Windows 8 Enterprise edition is available through Windows Software
  Assurance. It includes all the capabilities of Windows 8 Pro, plus premium features such as Windows To Go, DirectAccess, BranchCache, AppLocker, VDI, and Windows 8 app deployment.
• Windows RT edition runs on low-powered ARM processors powered devices such as tablets, which often feature long battery lives and new form factors (thin, light, and sleek devices)

Many Windows 8 devices were showcased at the launch ranging from tablet, to laptops, as well as desktop-based All-in-Ones models. View the photo gallery below for photos of each model.

Windows 8 Tablet & Laptops

• Acer Iconia W510, RM2199
• Fujitsu Slate, RM6699
• Acer Aspire S7 391, RM3799
• Sony Vaio Series 13 (Touch), RM3099
• Asus Zenbook, RM3099

Windows 8 All-In-One PC

• Samsung All-In-One PC Series 7, RM2999
• Toshiba Regza LX830, RM4099
• HP Envy 23 Touchsmart, RM3888
• Dell XPS One 27, RM4999-RM5999

Microsoft is currently having a roadshow for Windows 8 and consumers will get the opportunity to experience firsthand the new operating system and Windows 8 devices during the following dates and at these locations:-

• 29 Oct – 4 Nov: Kuala Lumpur – Lowyat & Midvalley
• 2-4 Nov: Penang – PISA, Johor Bahru – Persada Johor
• 9-11 Nov: Melaka – MITC
• 16-18 Nov: Ipoh – Stadium Indera Mulia
• 29 Nov – 1 Dec: Penang – PISA
• 30 Nov – 2 Dec: Kuching – Borneo Convention, Kota Kinabalu – One Borneo
• 7-9 Dec: Kuala Lumpur – KLCC

Windows 8 is available to Malaysian consumers through three ways:

1. Purchase of a new Windows 8 Device
Consumers will enjoy Windows 8 which comes pre-installed through the stunning array of All-in-Ones; touch-optimized laptops and ultrabooks; and even new hybrid form factors such as convertibles and tablets, made available at all major retail outlets from partners such Acer, Asus, Dell, Fujitsu, HP, Lenovo, LG, Samsung, Sony, and Toshiba.

2. Windows Upgrade Offer for consumers purchasing a new Windows 7 PC
The Windows Upgrade Offer provides consumers who buy an eligible Windows 7 PC the option to purchase a downloadable upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of just around RM50 (US$14.99) during the time of the promotion. This program is available for consumers buying new Windows 7 PCs that are preinstalled with Windows 7 Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional or Ultimate and include a matching and valid OEM Certificate of Authenticity. The Windows 7 PC must be purchased new during the eligibility period of 2 June 2012 to 31 January 2013 and redeemed before the program expiration at the end of February 2013 at the online Windows Upgrade Offer website. Consumers who register for the Windows Upgrade Offer will be able to download Windows 8 starting 26 October 2012. The upgrade can be installed on any eligible and compatible Windows PC and comes with 90 days of support from Microsoft.

3. Purchase of Windows 8 Pro upgrades
Consumers whose devices do not qualify for the Windows Upgrade Offer may opt to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro by purchasing a Windows 8 Pro Upgrade retail packaged product at participating outlets (see Appendix 2 for more details). Windows 8 Pro is available at a special retail price of RM229 (US$69.99) for a limited time only until 31 January 2013. Thereafter, Windows 8 Pro will be available for an estimated retail price of RM885 (US$289.99).